McAndrews' nomination now goes to the full Senate for a final vote. Senate officials said that vote would likely be today.

McAndrews, 58, was nominated by Casey in March to a new seat on the Bucks County bench, created by the Legislature last year.

If confirmed, he would serve on the bench through year's end. McAndrews and three other candidates are seeking election to a full 10-year term in this year's elections. There are two seats open. The primary is next month.

McAndrews cleared his first hurdle last Tuesday when the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously recommended his approval.

The state Senate has the power to confirm or reject Casey's judicial appointments. A two-thirds vote is required for confirmation.

McAndrews, a former assistant public defender, deputy assistant attorney general and municipal solicitor, is a partner in the Doylestown firm of Chandor, McAndrews, Schwartz, Drexler, McCullough & Lyons.